Which Style of Yoga is Best for You?

If a yoga timetable full of styles ever leaves you feeling a bit unsure where to begin, we’re here to help you figure out which type of yoga is best for you!

From strong, flowing classes to slow, restful ones, yoga comes in many forms. And the beautiful thing? There’s no one right way to do it. It’s all about finding what feels good in your body, and what supports your wellbeing — physically, mentally and emotionally.

At Marpole Retreats, we offer a wide range of yoga styles to suit all experience levels, moods, and intentions. Whether you're brand new to yoga or looking to try something new, this guide will help you get a feel for what each class is like — so you can step onto your mat with confidence.

Beginner/ Seasonal Yoga

A welcoming space to (re)connect with your practice—no pressure, no pretzel poses.

Whether you’re completely new to yoga or returning after some time away, these classes are designed to meet you where you are. We focus on the essentials: gentle movement, clear guidance, and mindful breathing. It’s all about building confidence, tuning in to your body, and moving with intention.

What to expect: Supportive instruction, accessible postures, and a relaxed pace that leaves you feeling grounded and refreshed.

Different yoga styles demonstrated at Marpole Retreats wellness retreat.

Hatha Yoga

Perfect if you’re new or looking for something gentle and grounding!

Hatha is a great place to start. It’s a slower-paced class that introduces you to foundational postures and breathing techniques. If you’re new to yoga, or just want to take things at a steady pace, this one’s for you.

What to expect: Simple postures, longer holds, time to focus on alignment, and a calm, mindful atmosphere.

Group yoga session with mixed abilities at Marpole Retreats Edinburgh.

Vinyasa / Flow Yoga

Great if you like movement and want to build strength and flexibility.

Vinyasa — also often called Flow — is all about connecting breath with movement. Poses flow one into the next, creating a rhythm that feels almost like a moving meditation. It’s energising, creative, and no two classes are quite the same.

What to expect: A flowing sequence of poses, some challenge, lots of breath awareness, and an uplifting vibe.

Close-up of hands in meditation during a yoga practice.

Yin Yoga

Ideal if you need a deep stretch and some proper stillness.

Yin yoga is gentle, it works deep into your connective tissues through long-held, passive poses. It’s slow, meditative, and deeply soothing — especially if you’re feeling tight, tired, or just need to slow down.

What to expect: Mostly floor-based postures held for several minutes, quietness, stillness, and lots of inner calm.

Group practising mindfulness and yoga together in Edinburgh.

Restorative Yoga

Perfect when you’re feeling run down, burnt out, or in need of a reset!

Restorative yoga is all about rest and healing. Using props like blankets and bolsters, you’ll be guided into supported postures that allow your body and nervous system to truly relax. It’s like being wrapped in a big exhale.

What to expect: Super gentle, fully supported poses, very little effort, and deep relaxation.

Yoga mats and props ready for class at Marpole Retreats Edinburgh

Power Yoga

Great if you want to build strength and enjoy a good sweat.

Power yoga is a stronger, faster-paced class that gives you all the benefits of yoga and a full-body workout. It’s influenced by Vinyasa — it’s flexible, creative, and varies from class to class, often focusing on strength, flow, and a good sweat.

What to expect: Dynamic sequences, strength-based poses, and a great mix of movement and breath.

Woman in a yoga pose during a class in Edinburgh

Rocket Yoga

Ideal if you’re up for a challenge and love to play!

Rocket yoga is fast, fun and full of variety. It’s based on Ashtanga and follows a structured sequence, but with modifications that make it more accessible and playful. It includes lots of arm balances, inversions and a fun, uplifting vibe.

What to expect: High energy, strong poses, creative flows, and a sense of fun.

Woman practising gentle yoga stretches on a mat in a calm studio

Yoga Nidra

A beautiful choice when you want deep rest or to unwind before bed.

Yoga Nidra means ‘yogic sleep’. You’ll lie down, get cosy, and be guided through a calming meditation that brings you into a restful, dream-like state. It’s perfect if you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or not sleeping well.

What to expect: No movement, just lying down and being gently guided into a deep state of relaxation.

Not Sure Where to Start? Try a Bit of Everything.

The truth is — you don’t need to pick just one style. Many people enjoy mixing it up depending on how they feel that day.

And to help you explore what works for you, we’ve put together a special welcome offer:

Intro Offer £50

for 3 mat-based classes & 1 studio event of your choice

This is the perfect way to experience different styles, meet our lovely teachers, and get a feel for the studio by trying one of our events — all with no pressure. You might surprise yourself with what you enjoy most.

Whether you want to stretch, sweat, slow down, or sleep — we’ve got something for you.

Book here and begin your yoga journey with us!

nstructor guiding students through a restorative yoga session in Edinburgh.

Still not sure which class to try first? We’d love to help you choose — just drop us a message or speak to one of our team.

Yoga is for every body & every kind of day!
Come as you are. We can’t wait to welcome you at Marpole Retreats.

Beginner learning yoga poses in a supportive class at Marpole Retreats.

Come Say Hi!

You can find us on Leith Walk,

open every day from 6:30am - 8:30pm.